Robbi Mecus, a noted climbing enthusiast and forest ranger, tragically died after falling 1,000 feet in Alaska’s Denali National Park and Preserve. Mecus, aged 52 and from Keene Valley, New York, was an advocate for expanding the presence of transgender individuals in alpine climbing. She co-founded the Queer Ice Fest in the Adirondack Mountains and was known for her passion for protecting the environment in her 25-year career with the New York Department of Environmental Conservation. Mecus was described by Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar as a professional with a commitment to advancing diversity, inclusion, and LGBTQ belonging.
Mecus’ body was recovered after rescue efforts were halted due to challenging conditions on Mount Johnson in Denali National Park. Her climbing partner, a 30-year-old woman from California, survived with serious injuries and was rescued by rangers before being flown to a hospital in Anchorage. The accident occurred while the pair were ascending Mt. Johnson on a steep, technical climb known as “the Escalator.” The climbing route consists of ice, rock, and snow, and is popular with experienced climbers who may take up to 24 hours to summit and return to base.
Mecus was a seasoned climber who had previously been involved in multiple rescue efforts in the mountains of Upstate New York. In a 2019 interview for the New York City Trans Oral History Project, she shared her journey of growing up in the city, getting married, having a child, and later transitioning. As a ranger for 17 years before her transition in the 2010s, Mecus navigated a “hyper-macho” environment with colleagues who responded positively to her transition. She emphasized the importance of visibility and using privilege to advocate for marginalized communities.
The tragic incident on Mount Johnson highlights the risks and challenges faced by climbers in remote and technical terrains. The survivor’s rescue involved the efforts of first responders, fellow climbers, and park rangers who reached the location after the fall. The treacherous nature of the climb, combining ice, rock, and snow, underscores the dangers inherent in alpine climbing. Mecus’ legacy as a dedicated ranger and advocate for diversity and inclusion serves as a reminder of the impact individuals can have in their respective fields.
Mecus’ passion for climbing and her advocacy for LGBTQ inclusion in outdoor activities have left a lasting impact on the community. Her contributions to the field of alpine climbing and her commitment to environmental conservation have been recognized by colleagues and officials in the New York Department of Environmental Conservation. The Queer Ice Fest, which she co-founded, continues to promote diversity and belonging in outdoor spaces. Mecus’ story serves as a powerful example of perseverance, courage, and the importance of representation in traditionally male-dominated fields.
In the wake of Mecus’ tragic death, the climbing community mourns the loss of a talented and dedicated individual. Her passion for climbing, her advocacy for marginalized communities, and her dedication to protecting the environment have left a lasting legacy. The circumstances of the accident serve as a sobering reminder of the risks inherent in alpine climbing and the importance of safety measures. Mecus’ impact on the climbing world and her commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion will be remembered by those who knew her and by the broader outdoor community.
